1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1992 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1992 Ford Tempo. (97 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1992 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW Z3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Ford Tempo, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 BMW Z3 (275 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Ford Tempo. (171 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1996 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Ford Tempo. 1996 BMW Z3 has automatic transmission and 1992 Ford Tempo has manual transmission. 1992 Ford Tempo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1992 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z3 | Tempo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2540 mm |
